Winning a lawsuit and collecting on a judgment are two very different things. Before filing suit, it helps to know whether the other party has assets worth pursuing. After a judgment, locating those assets is often the key to recovery. Asset investigations give attorneys and clients the information they need.
When Asset Investigations Help
- Deciding whether a lawsuit is worth filing
- Evaluating settlement offers
- Collecting on a judgment
- Divorce cases where assets may be hidden
- Business disputes and partnership dissolutions
- Estate and probate matters
What Investigators Can Find Lawfully
Asset investigations focus on information available through lawful sources, including:
- Real estate ownership and property records
- Vehicles, boats, and other titled property
- Business ownership and corporate filings
- Liens, judgments, and bankruptcies
- Uniform Commercial Code filings
- Professional licenses
- Publicly available online activity that may indicate business interests or spending
Investigators may also identify employment, which can be relevant to wage garnishment.
What Requires Legal Process
Bank account balances, financial statements, and similar private financial records cannot lawfully be obtained by an investigator through deception or without legal authority. Federal law prohibits obtaining customer financial information through pretexting. When this kind of information is needed, attorneys use lawful tools such as subpoenas, discovery, or a debtor examination. An investigator can often provide leads that make those legal tools more effective.
Hidden Assets
Some people try to hide assets by transferring property to relatives, creating new businesses, or titling items in someone else’s name. Investigators look for patterns, such as recent transfers or related businesses at the same address, that may warrant further legal inquiry.
Working With Process Serving
Once assets or employment are identified, the next step often involves serving garnishments, subpoenas, or notices. Agencies that provide both investigation and process serving can move the case forward efficiently.
Clear Reports for Attorneys
Findings are presented in an organized report with sources noted, so attorneys can evaluate options and take action.
Asset Investigations in Ohio
We provide asset investigations for attorneys, businesses, and individuals throughout Ohio. Visit our private investigation services page or contact us through our service inquiry form.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice.
